Kidney stones are formed when minerals and other substances in the urine stick together and form solid crystals. Here is a brief overview of the process:
Formation of urine: The kidneys produce urine by filtering waste products from the blood.
Concentration of urine: As the kidneys produce urine, the urine becomes more concentrated as excess water is removed.
Formation of crystals: When the concentration of certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, becomes too high, they can stick together and form solid crystals.
Growth of crystals: The crystals can grow in size over time, forming larger, solid stones.
Movement of stones: The stones can remain in the kidney, or they can move through the urinary tract, causing pain and discomfort.
Factors that can increase the risk of kidney stone formation include dehydration, a diet high in protein, sodium, and/or oxalate, certain medical conditions, and certain medications.
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stones, as well as the severity of symptoms. Treatment options may include pain medication, drinking plenty of fluids, and medications to help break up or pass the stones. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the stones.
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